First series module with silicon strip cells from Origin

The solar branch of the Australian energy provider Origin will present the first series module with its Sliver Cells at the European PV Conference & Exhibition in Barcelona, Spain in June. 

© Origin Energy Solar First series product: Origin presents a first 10 W solar module with its Sliver Cells.

With this proprietary technology developed in collaboration with the Centre for Sustainable Energy Systems of the Australian National University in Canberra, wafer-thin strips – approximately only 50 µm thick – made of monocrystalline silicon will be used instead of the conventional cells (see PI 2/2004, p. 29). The material requirements are reduced by up to 90 percent according to Origin. Furthermore, the cells are flexible and can produce electricity bifacially.

Origin plans to start series production with a yearly capacity of 5 MW in its factory in Adelaide. The new module, which for the time being has a very low power rating of 10 W, should come onto the market »in the first half of this year,« says Origin. Exact technical data and information regarding the price hasn't been released as yet.

Origin Energy Solar
PO Box 1097
Adelaide SA 5001, Australia
phone +61/88217-5812, fax -5855
www.sliver.com.au

Jochen Siemer
© PHOTON International, May 2005